A very large number of Mercedes cars could incorrectly report the location of traffic accidents when using the eCall system to call 112 urgently.
The eCall system is a mandatory feature on all new car models, its role being to shorten the response time of rescue crews by dialing the emergency number 112. In addition to opening a telephone link between the occupants of the vehicle and the operator 112, the system ensures and automatically send GPS location coordinates, along with other relevant details such as the force of the impact.
The recall decision concerns the following Mercedes series, produced between 2016 and 2021: CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class , S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class and G-Class.
The carmaker said that so far no incidents have been documented resulting in property damage or personal injury, caused by the system that is the subject of this recall.
The company intends to fix the problem with the help of a firmware update, the intervention being provided free of charge at Mercedes dealerships. The recall campaign will start on April 6.
According to the official explanation, the problem is caused by “temporarily interrupting the power supply of the communication module at the time of the traffic accident, causing the provision of incorrect location coordinates during a potential emergency call.” However, “other functions of the automatic / manual emergency dialing system remain fully operational,” the company added.
Apparently, the recall campaign was launched following an investigation in Europe into an incident in which the eCall automated system provided an incorrect position for the vehicle involved in an accident. Mercedes-Benz also found other situations in which the incorrect location of the vehicle was transmitted.
Robert J. Smith is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including JoyStiq and Android Authority. In regards to academics, Robert earned a degree in business from Fordham University. Robert has passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.
